State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

Nicolas E. Young

  • Climate Change Stopped the Next Ice Age

    Climate Change Stopped the Next Ice Age

    New research shows that 2,000 years ago, remnants of an Arctic ice sheet began growing again, marking the start of a new glacial period—what we commonly call an ice age. But by the 1960s, global warming had raised summer temperatures enough to reverse that growth.

  • New Study Demonstrates Unprecedented Glacial Retreat in the Andes

    New Study Demonstrates Unprecedented Glacial Retreat in the Andes

    Using innovative methodology, researchers found that Andean glaciers are the smallest they’ve been in 11,700 years.

Collage of Turkiye beach scene and Columbia University Campus with text: UN Climate Change Conference COP31, Antalya, Turkiye, Nov 9-20, 2026

COP31, the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference, aims to advance dialogue, strengthen consensus, and accelerate climate action on a global scale. From November 9–20, 2026 in Antalya, Türkiye, heads of state, ministers, scientists, business leaders, and civil society will gather to advance efforts in emission targets, climate finance, and adaptation and resilience. Once again, our experts, students, and global thought leaders from Columbia Climate School and across Columbia University are contributing to key events, sharing insights, and helping shape the dialogue toward ambitious, science-based solutions. Learn More

  • Climate Change Stopped the Next Ice Age

    Climate Change Stopped the Next Ice Age

    New research shows that 2,000 years ago, remnants of an Arctic ice sheet began growing again, marking the start of a new glacial period—what we commonly call an ice age. But by the 1960s, global warming had raised summer temperatures enough to reverse that growth.

  • New Study Demonstrates Unprecedented Glacial Retreat in the Andes

    New Study Demonstrates Unprecedented Glacial Retreat in the Andes

    Using innovative methodology, researchers found that Andean glaciers are the smallest they’ve been in 11,700 years.